Michelman has joined the National Composites Center (NCC), based in Kettering, Ohio, USA, to augment its fibers and composites development team with research, laboratory, testing and collaboration capabilities. Michelman manufactures a variety of polymeric dispersions and emulsions used as fiber sizing and lubricants critical to the production of composite materials.

The NCC is recognized as the national center of excellence for the development and commercialization of composite materials and manufacturing processes for the aerospace, defense, ground transportation, commercial and infrastructure markets. The Center helps its members develop innovative solutions, and shorten product development time through technology transfer and collaboration, engineering expertise, laboratory and pilot production capabilities.

According to Dr. Andy Brink, Global Technology and Business Development Manager for Fibers & Composites at Michelman, “Being part of the NCC will allow us to network with other members, and collaborate on innovative product development ideas and opportunities. Our combined resources will allow us to bring innovative solutions to the fibers and composites markets more quickly and cost effectively."

Michelman is a global developer of water-based surface modifiers, additives and polymers for numerous industries including fibers, composites, wood and floor care, industrial coatings, inks, and construction products, and water-based barrier and functional coatings for flexible film packaging, paperboard, and corrugated cartons. Michelman serves its multinational and regional customers with production facilities in the U.S., Europe and Singapore, and a worldwide network of highly trained field technical support personnel.